Workplace Strategies for Mental Health, compliments of Canada Life, and Mental Health Research Canada, have released new research that shows burnout among working Canadians is lower now than it was during the pandemic, but still remains a significant concern among workers.
The new study, conducted in July 2024, shows almost one in four (24 per cent) employed Canadians reported feeling burnout at work, down from over one-third (35 per cent) in December 2021, said the report.
“I’m pleased to see we’re headed in the right direction, with fewer workers reporting burnout than during the pandemic,” said Mary Ann Baynton, Director of Collaboration and Strategy, Workplace Strategies for Mental Health. “But too many Canadians are still struggling. We’re encouraging employers to continue finding ways to reduce work stressors and stop burnout before it starts.”
While a quarter of survey respondents indicated they experienced burnout in the past 12 months, a staggering 69 per cent of working Canadians have experienced symptoms that can develop into burnout, said the report.
In particular:
- 40 per cent experienced fatigue
- 38 per cent reported lowered levels of motivation
- 29 per cent experienced reduced levels of efficiency and energy
- 26 per cent indicated feelings of irritability
“Each symptom by itself is not an indication that someone is experiencing burnout,” said Baynton. “However, it’s important to look for these signs before the negative effects of burnout happen. Burnout isn’t something that most people can easily bounce back from, so it’s important we recognize the symptoms to identify and address it early.”
The report said healthcare workers continue to top the list of industries, with a burnout rate of 38 per cent, down from 53 per cent in 2021. While these numbers reflect the same positive trend as the overall data, the number is still 14 points above the national average, indicating that healthcare workers are the most at risk for burnout. Educators and childcare workers and those in retail follow close behind with both industries reporting 27 per cent burnout among workers.
“Regardless of the industry, it’s critical to use the positive momentum we’re seeing to find ways to further reduce workplace stressors that may contribute to burnout,” said Baynton. “Because it can become chronic in nature, proactive prevention strategies are considered the most effective approach for addressing burnout at work.”
Using evidenced-based research, Workplace Strategies for Mental Health has developed a free virtual workshop to help prevent and manage burnout. Employers and leaders can learn about workload and stress management and gain valuable work-life balance skills. Employees can also access additional free tools and resources to help reduce their risk of burnout in the workplace.
You can view the full 2024 Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace report, including methodology and major findings, along with an infographic of key results on the Mental Health Research Canada website. You can also read 2021 psychological health and safety in Canadian Workplaces report, and the associated Canada Life news release concerning those survey results.
Mario Toneguzzi
Mario Toneguzzi is Managing Editor of Canada’s Podcast. He has more than 40 years of experience as a daily newspaper writer, columnist, and editor. He was named in 2021 as one of the Top 10 Business Journalists in the World by PR News – the only Canadian to make the list. He was also named by RETHINK to its global list of Top Retail Experts 2024.
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